Instagram's new About this Account section will include a profile's location and the date it joined the app

It's all part of Facebook's push to outline its most trustworthy users, starting with trust ratings for members of its main social network, as it continues to grapple with the spread of misinformation and fake news across its legion of apps.

These profile modifications won't affect general users with small followings, but Instagram did outline a number of updates that will impact you, such as the ability to request verification and added security features.

Read on to find out about all of the app's sweeping changes.

Instagram profiles – what's new?

Instagram's new "About this Account" feature will be available for the platform's biggest profiles to help you "evaluate the authenticity of the account".

You'll be able to tap the menu button to find more info on popular users, including the date the account joined Instagram, the country where the account is located, accounts with shared followers, any username changes in the last year and any ads the account is currently running.

Starting next month, the affected accounts will be able to review the information that will be available to the public before the feature's global rollout.

"Our community has told us that it's important to them to have a deeper understanding of accounts that reach many people on Instagram, particularly when those accounts are sharing information related to current events, political or social causes, for example," said Instagram's co-founder Mike Krieger in a blog post.

Instagram verification – how to apply

Instagram has finally done a Twitter and introduced a verification form to help you attain that little blue checkmark everyone craves.

To apply, go to your profile, tap the menu icon, select "Settings" at the bottom and then choose "Request Verification."

You will need to provide your account username, your full name and a copy of your legal or business identification – information that will not be shared with the public.

Of course, it helps to be a celeb, public figure, or recognised brand – but that doesn't mean you can't give it a shot.